‘A 100 Copies, Please’: Making a Strategic Bulk Purchase for Published Authors

Dear Published Author,

Congratulations on reaching a significant milestone in your writing journey - the publication of your non-fiction book! It's a big achievement.

As you gear up for the exciting phase of sharing your knowledge with the world, you'll inevitably face a crucial decision: How many books should you order from your publisher?

This is a dilemma faced by many authors, and it's essential to strike the right balance between cost savings and practical considerations.

Let's delve into some key factors to consider before making that price-reduced bulk order.

1. Book Launch Promotions

Your book launch is a grand opportunity to create buzz and attract readers. Consider whether you'll be running promotions such as "buy 1, get 1 free" or offering free copies to high-profile individuals who can help promote your work.

Will endorsers, influencers, or potential collaborators receive complimentary copies as a way to initiate partnerships or training opportunities?

2. Launch Event Considerations

At your book launch event, if you plan to have one, you might want to provide attendees with a free copy as a gesture of appreciation. Alternatively, you could offer copies for sale.

Strike a balance between the two approaches based on your audience's preferences. Keep in mind that around 40% of the attendees might want to support you by purchasing a copy, even if they receive one for free.

3. Bulk Orders for Key Players/ Corporations

Are you expecting interest from large corporations that might want to order your book in bulk for their teams? If so, you may want to order more copies to sell to them - creating a win-win situation for the two of you.

Consider whether these corporate buyers will require custom branding on the cover or if a generic version will suffice. Factor in potential bulk orders from this demographic, as it could significantly impact the quantity you need to order.

4. PR and Review Copies

Your book's success relies on garnering attention from journalists and reviewers. Your PR agency might request copies to send out for review purposes. Plan for this demand by ensuring you have ample copies available for distribution to these key stakeholders.

Moreover, if you plan to apply for any speaking opportunities, think about whether you want the organisers to buy your book in bulk as part payment for your appearance and/or have a sales stall at the event.

5. In-House Events and Workshops

Will your book be an integral part of entry tickets for in-house events or workshops? If so, factor in the number of attendees you're expecting and how many books will be required to meet their needs.

6. Workshop and B2B Training Campaigns

Consider whether your book will be incorporated into any workshops or corporate training campaigns. If you're planning to use your book as a learning resource, you'll need additional copies for distribution among participants.

In summary...

Ultimately, deciding how many books to order is a blend of careful planning and calculated risk-taking. While ordering in bulk can yield cost savings, it's crucial to anticipate the various scenarios in which you'll need copies of your book.

Here's a step-by-step approach to help you determine the right quantity:

1. Assess Your Needs: List out all the potential scenarios in which you'll need copies of your book, including events, promotions, and collaborations.
2. Estimate Demand: Estimate the number of copies required for each scenario based on your expectations and audience size.
3. Buffer for Unforeseen Circumstances: Add a buffer to account for unexpected opportunities or increased demand.
4. Consult with Professionals: Seek advice from your publisher, publicist, or marketing team to get insights into industry standards and best practices.
5. Budget Considerations: Balance your budget constraints with the potential benefits of bulk ordering.

In conclusion, ordering the right number of books is a delicate balancing act. By carefully considering the various situations in which you'll need copies of your book, you can make an informed decision that maximizes your impact while staying within your budget. Remember, every author's journey is unique, so tailor your approach to what aligns best with your goals and aspirations.

Wishing you success in your book launch and beyond!